Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce is a delicious and lighter alternative to traditional Alfredo. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for adding rich flavor to your favorite pasta dishes while sneaking in some veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 10 cloves of garlic (left whole)
• 3 cups 2% milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Steam the cauliflower florets and whole garlic cloves together until fork tender.
2. Step 2: Once steamed, add the cauliflower and garlic to a high speed blender or food processor.
3. Step 3: Add the milk and puree until smooth.
4. Step 4: Transfer the cauliflower sauce to a large skillet or pot.
5. Step 5: Heat the sauce over medium-high heat and add the cornstarch.
6. Step 6: Whisk continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
7. Step 7: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, then add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Step 8: Continue stirring until the Alfredo sauce is creamy and thick.
9. Step 9: Serve over pasta of your choice.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or cashew milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, roast the garlic before blending.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the richness of the sauce.
• Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish entirely gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving.

Is this sauce suitable for freezing?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change and become grainy when thawed and reheated.

Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 148 reviews

A creamy, dairy-rich Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce that replaces traditional heavy cream with steamed cauliflower and garlic for a lighter, flavorful twist on the classic Italian pasta sauce. This sauce is smooth, cheesy, and easy to prepare, perfect for a comforting meal served over your favorite pasta.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 4 cups of sauce, serving 4-6 people 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 10 cloves of garlic (left whole)
• 3 cups 2% milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

1. Steam Vegetables: Steam the cauliflower florets and whole garlic cloves together until fork tender. This ensures they soften sufficiently for blending and create a smooth sauce texture.
2. Blend Ingredients: Once steamed, add the cauliflower and garlic to a high speed blender or food processor. Add the milk and puree until smooth, forming the creamy base of the Alfredo sauce.
3. Heat Sauce: Transfer the cauliflower puree to a large skillet or pot. Heat over medium-high heat to begin thickening process.
4. Add Thickener: Gradually add cornstarch while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, which should take around 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the sauce is creamy and thick, fully integrating all flavors.
6. Serve: Pour the rich cauliflower Alfredo sauce over your pasta of choice and enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite.

Notes

• For a vegan version, substitute parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk.
• Ensure cauliflower is steamed until very tender for the smoothest sauce texture.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
• If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
• Serve immediately for best texture, or gently reheat with a little milk if needed.

Keywords: Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce, Healthy Alfredo Sauce, Low Fat Pasta Sauce, Creamy Cauliflower Sauce, Easy Alfredo Recipe